What is the significance of "Ozen Shoma'as Tochachas Chayim"?
R. Yonah (30-31): The ear is very esteemed; there is a great obligation to use it to serve Hashem, to hear rebuke.
Why does it say "[Ozen Shoma'as Tochachas Chayim] b'Kerev Chachamim Talin"?
R. Yonah: Just like it is nice and proper for those who understand Chachamim to ask and answer, to dwell amidst Chachamim, so it is proper for one whose ear hears rebuke. The Chachamim desire and rejoice in his company. Even if his heart does not attain Chachmah, he is chosen and honored in their eyes, since he desires to hear their rebuke. He will reach a high level via this!
Orchos Tzadikim (Sha'ar ha'Ratzon, DH v'Acharei): In the future, people will be astounded at one who did not learn, and he dwells among the Avos and talks with them. Hashem will say, he merited via listening to Me - "Ozen Shoma'as Tochachas Chayim b'Kerev Chachamim Talin."
Malbim: It is not enough to hear good tidings from afar. Rather, it will dwell among Chachamim to see Chachamim themselves and their deeds. Serving [Chachamim of] Torah is greater than learning it (Brachos 7b). Sight of the eye does more than hearing of the ear - "Me'or Einayim Yesamach Lev" (30).
